Major & Minor
Environmental Studies
There is a vital connection between humanity and the natural environment. The ability to make sound decisions regarding nature’s influence on humanity and vice versa is an academic pursuit in many fields of study. The Environmental Studies major provides a strong scientific foundation for academic exploration in current environmental issues to provide applicable and solution-oriented knowledge and skills.
About the Environmental Studies Major
Studying the environment is preparatory to increasing awareness of the connection between natural and human processes. Humans have unique roles in the stewardship of the earth and its abundant but finite resources. As Environmental Studies majors become scientifically literate, they will be prepared to understand and measure the environment in a broad range of applications. Solutions posed by this discipline require thoughtful analysis, critical thinking, and effective communication. Underlying solutions will provide both human and environmental flourishing through principles of sustainability and stewardship. Environmental Studies majors will find ample opportunities to provide humanitarian service.
Situated in the Shenandoah Valley and Appalachian Mountains, Southern Virginia University provides a special home for students to root themselves in connection with nature. Whether in the classroom, laboratory, or in the field, students will receive individualized attention and meaningful discussion in their small classes. They will develop skills needed for careers in science, research, business, or policy. Environmental Studies majors will complete a capstone project that requires original or applied research and will develop close relationships with their peers, professors, mentors, community, and the environment.
Learning Outcomes
What you’ll learn in the Environmental Studies major:
- Scientific literacy and critical thinking in a range of scientific disciplines.
- Experience conducting experiments in the lab and in the field.
- Awareness of the environment in the biosphere and different levels of biological organization.
- Understanding the impacts of society on the environment and vice versa.
- Strategies to discover environmental issues, research, raise awareness, and enact solutions to stabilize or improve conditions.
- Experience with humanitarian service to improve human and environmental wellbeing.
Career Opportunities
A degree in environmental studies opens the door to a variety of meaningful careers that combine science, policy, and advocacy to address pressing environmental issues. Depending on your interests and goals, you can pursue work in conservation, education, sustainability, or environmental policy, among other fields. Learn where a career in environmental studies can take you.
- Environmental Scientist
- Conservation Specialist
- Sustainability Coordinator
- Environmental Educator
- Policy Analyst
- Wildlife or Park Ranger
- Environmental Consultant
Getting started in the Environmental Studies Major
Follow these simple steps below to get a head start in the Environmental Studies Major today
Contact Your Advisor
Get in touch with New tab, Opens Bio of: Professor Samuel Hirt to discuss your interests and goals
Enroll
Enroll in courses recommended by your advisor
Declare
Turn in a completed PDFDeclare Major Form to the Registrar’s Office
Questions? Contact the Registrar at emailregistrar@svu.edu.
Environmental Studies Faculty
Samuel Hirt
Associate Professor of Biology; Associate Provost
Stories from the Program
Preparing to Protect Wildlife Species at Southern Virginia University
Chase Pope (’25) is a big fan of wildlife diversity, and the desire to protect wildlife from a current mass extinction of animals has led him to study biology, which will prepare him for his desired career in wildlife conservation.
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